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Clean-up operations are continuing in Madagascar after the Turkish-flagged ship MV Gulser Ana grounded off Faux Cap, on the southernmost tip of the Indian Ocean island, on August 26th, releasing bunker fuel into the sea.

In a statement released by vessel operator Mardeniz Denizcilik, the company said “The vessel’s bunker tanks were damaged as a result of the grounding and some fuel oil has escaped. The owners, through ITOPF (International Tankers Oil Pollution Federation), pollution clean-up experts, are carrying out beach cleaning operations to remove any bunker oil residues arising from the initial escape. Anti pollution experts are working with local residents who are receiving training, equipment and payment in order to assist with this task and we would like to thank them for their hard work and efforts.”

According to Mardeniz currents are carrying any fuel oil to the east and away from the Cap Ste. Marie Marine Reserve and the coral reef, which “should avoid any long or medium term environmental damage to the area”.

A number of over-flights of the area have taken place with no sightings of injured whales or other marine mammals so far.

The MV Gulser Ana remains partially submerged where she grounded. AP Moller Maersk group salvage company Svitzer has been closely monitoring the situation and has been contracted to remove the remaining fuel oil and any other pollutants on board. Since the initial grounding there has been no further release of fuel oil or other pollutants from the Gulser Ana.